Health authorities are sounding the alarm over a “tidal wave of flu” that is dramatically increasing hospital admissions throughout the UK. An interactive NHS map now allows residents to see how severely their local areas are affected.
Recent NHS statistics reveal a sharp surge in flu-related hospitalisations, raising fears about significant pressure on hospital wards during the busy Christmas season. Last week alone, approximately 2,660 people were admitted daily with influenza—a record high for this time of year.
This figure marks a 55% increase compared to the previous week, with ambulance callouts also climbing to 48,814, surpassing last year’s numbers. According to The Mirror, the H3N2 strain of influenza has mutated into a more aggressive form, potentially intensifying the burden on the NHS as families gather for festive celebrations.
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Experts from the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health have warned that this new variant, while rare, could cause fatal complications such as sepsis in otherwise healthy children. The situation is further exacerbated by upcoming industrial action, with junior doctors in England planning a five-day strike that could strain healthcare services even more.
The early onset of this flu season—beginning about a month before the norm over the past three years—is linked to these developments. Dr Ed Hutchinson, Professor of Molecular and Cellular Virology at the University of Glasgow, explains the virus’ rapid evolution: “The H3N2 strain acquired seven mutations over the southern hemisphere summer, significantly reducing immunity and making this flu season unusually severe in the northern hemisphere.”
Vaccination remains the most effective defence against severe flu symptoms. Officials strongly encourage people aged 65 and over, those with existing health conditions, and their caregivers to get vaccinated. It takes up to 14 days for the vaccine to become fully effective.
Flu spreads primarily through close contact in large groups, emphasizing the importance of preventive measures during this peak season.
NHS England recently updated the public with a stark warning from Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting: “There is a tidal wave of flu tearing through our hospitals,” underscoring the urgent challenge facing the healthcare system this winter.